Conjunctivitis cases rise during monsoon: How to prevent pink eye?

By Daphne Clarance: Over the last ten days, most people have been experiencing an increase in eye infections, especially because of the high levels of humidity in the city.

With the Yamuna river crossing the danger water level mark, there has been an uptick in the cases of conjunctivitis in Delhi and parts of Gujarat after monsoon-related ailments like dengue and malaria.

Patients with pink and watery eyes have been flocking to hospital Outpatient Departments (OPDs).

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Dr Prashaant Chaudhry, an ophthalmologist at Aakash Healthcare, said that this year’s infection appears to be more virulent, with most major government and private hospitals reporting 15-20 cases daily, which is three times higher than the average number of cases.

“This time around the infection has been more severe, associated with membrane formation and also haemorrhages (blood spots),” said Dr Prashaant Chaudhry.

Dr Vandana Khullar, senior eye consultant at PSRI Hospital said that this time eye infection is severe, affecting both the eyes and causing severe symptoms like marked swelling, inability to open the eyes, eye pain and very red eyes.

What is conjunctivitis or pink eye?

Conjunctivitis or pink eye is the inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane that lines your eyelid and eyeball.

It is caused due to various factors, including viral or bacterial infections, allergies, and environmental conditions.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is an infection of the eye’s conjunctiva caused by bacterial pathogens. This rise in cases may be attributed to various factors such as changes in weather conditions, hygiene practices, or the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains.

“Marked discomfort in eyes and prolonged nature of illness are causing patients to visit eye clinics. Not only antibiotic eye drops with anti-inflammatory agents are used but oral antibiotics are also needed in some cases,” said Dr Vandana Khullar.

Proper education about hygiene, early diagnosis, and appropriate antibiotic use are essential in managing and preventing the further spread of bacterial conjunctivitis.

HOW TO STAY SAFE FROM CONJUNCTIVITIS?

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• It is crucial to practice good hygiene. This includes washing your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially before and after touching your eyes or applying eye drops.
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes as this can worsen the condition or spread it to your other eye. If you have conjunctivitis, wash any discharge from around your eyes several times a day using a clean, wet washcloth or fresh cotton ball.

• Do not share personal items such as pillows, washcloths, towels, eye drops, eye or face makeup, makeup brushes, contact lenses, contact lens storage cases, or eyeglasses. These items can harbour the virus or bacteria and spread the infection.
• Change your pillowcases often and wash them in hot water and detergent. Use a clean towel and washcloth daily.
• If you wear contact lenses, ensure they are cleaned properly. Contact lenses, when not cleaned well, can cause bacterial conjunctivitis. If you have conjunctivitis, stop wearing your contacts until your eye doctor says it’s okay to start wearing them again.

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• Maintain a healthy diet to keep your eyes strong and resistant to infections. Foods rich in vitamins A and C are particularly beneficial for eye health.
• Regular eye check-ups can help detect any eye problems early and prevent them from worsening.
• If you have allergic conjunctivitis, avoid exposure to the allergen causing the reaction. Allergic conjunctivitis can be controlled with allergy eye drops.
• If you’re around someone with conjunctivitis, take extra precautions to avoid getting infected. This includes washing your hands often and avoiding close contact with the infected person.

Why are antibiotics required this time?

Antibiotics are being required this time because of the increased incidence of bacterial causes of the illness. Usually, conjunctivitis is self-limiting. However, this time around, with the strain being more virulent, calls the need for the use of antibiotics.

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“Using antibiotics helps to shorten the duration of the infection, reduce its severity, and prevent complications. However, it is crucial to use antibiotics judiciously to minimise the risk of antibiotic resistance and preserve the effectiveness of these medications,” added Dr Prashaant Chaudhry.